Natural England - Energy Crops Scheme
Energy Crops Scheme
The Energy Crops Scheme aims to increase the amount of energy crops grown in England in appropriate locations. It offers grants to farmers in England for the establishment of miscanthus and short rotation coppice.
These crops are used as a substitute for fossil fuels, so they can contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and help to combat climate change.
The scheme, part of the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE), is funded by the European Union, through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development. The RDPE was agreed by the European Commission on 6 December 2007.
All plantings (miscanthus and short rotation coppice) are supported at a rate of 40 per cent of actual planting costs. For full details of which costs are eligible, please contact us.
Application form and guidance documents
- Energy Crops Scheme: Establishment Grants Handbook
- Application form
- Agents authorisation form : To be completed by applicants who wish to authorise an agent to act on their behalf.
- Landlords consent form : If you are a tenant, you must use this form to inform your landlord that you intend to make an application and to obtain your landlord's consent.
Information on establishing energy crops
- Opportunities and optimum sitings for energy crops
- Growing Short Rotation Coppice
- Planting and Growing Miscanthus
How to apply
To apply for the Energy Crops Scheme please contact:
Natural England, PO Box 530, Worcester WR5 2WZ
Tel: 0300 060 1115
Fax: 0300 060 1125
Email: iss.westmidlands@naturalengland.org.uk
Technical queries
For technical queries about the scheme please contact:
Natural England, Units 2 & 3, Northallerton Business Park, Standard Way, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL6 2XQ
Tel: 01609 767400
Email: ecsqueries@naturalengland.org.uk
